MUSCAT: A new 100 km desert hike will be launched as the Sultanate of Oman's signature desert marathon, Oman Desert Marathon, celebrates its 10th anniversary in the New Year.
The organisers Omania Adventure is gearing up to host the 10th Anniversary Oman Desert Marathon in the golden sands of Bidiyah, where endless dunes meet the horizon.
Over the years, the ultra-marathon has become far more than just a running competition, the organisers transforming the event into a profound journey of human endurance, cultural discovery and personal transformation.
The Oman Desert Marathon will begin on January 18, 2025, as it continues to challenge the boundaries of traditional sporting events. With participants drawn from across the globe, the race offers multiple categories catering to different levels of adventurers.
The main race is a gruelling 165 km spread across five stages of 42 km, 32 km, 40 km, 30 km and 21 km to discover the most remote, untouched sands and the highest dunes of the Omani Desert.
The upcoming edition will have a new 100 km Oman Desert Marathon Hike, which is a hiker's version for those seeking a self-sufficient desert experience.
It will have the same route as the marathon runners, but at hikers own pace — 20 km daily over five stages, from the Oasis of Al wasil to Al Jawharat Resort in Bidiyah. Full support provided throughout the journey.
The organisers said they would offer exclusive discount for Omani residents in the first-ever 100 km Desert Hiking Experience across the magnificent Rimal Al Sharqiya.
"We're offering an exclusive 40 per cent discount of for Oman residents so that they share our post about the discount on social media, tagging the person along with who you would like to tackle this 100 km adventure. Then send us your proof you live in Oman by DM in Instagram. Once you complete these steps, we'll send you a special discount code to join this historic event," the organiser said.
Other inclusive categories include Kids Race (2 km), Family Run (5 km), Cross Country Run (10 km), Half Marathon and Full Marathon.
MORE THAN A RACE
"The Oman Desert Marathon stands as a powerful symbol of unity, where athletic achievement meets cultural celebration. It's more than a race — it's where the heart of Omani culture shines brightest, as locals come together to share their heritage and demonstrate their profound connection with this breathtaking land,” said race director Said al Hajri, who is the founder of Omania Adventure.
"This is not just a race. We are creating a bridge between people, culture and the magnificent Omani desert. Each step is a story, each participant is an ambassador of cultural understanding."
Last year's event attracted over 700 runners from Oman and around the world.
The marathon has captured international attention, featuring in prestigious publications such as Laufzeit (German Running Magazine) and Esprit Trail Magazine (French Publication) highlighting the extraordinary desert experience.
OMAN DESERT MARATHON 2025
A gruelling 165 km main race spread across five stages
A new 100 km hiker's version
Inclusive categories including:
Kids Race (2 km)
Family Run (5 km)
Cross Country Run (10 km)
Half Marathon
Full Marathon
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